Nick

Hi Nick here. I've got a bunch of Cook Strait ferry tips and here's my first one.

Save 10%

The most reliable Cook Strait Ferry - Bluebridge

Only when you use promo code RANKERS and show your free Rankers digital membership card at check in.

We'll instantly send your Rankers card to your email address.

Get all the details here

Tip Two

The early bird gets the worm

Those on board the boat first get the best choice of seating.

You're best to get to the ferry terminal for an early check in. You'll avoid the stress and you might end up at the front of the vehicle queue.

Once you're checked in it can take a while before you can drive aboard the ferry. Take this time to get yourselves all prepared.

Then, once you're all aboard, it's quick and easy to leave your vehicle and find a comfortable space for your journey.

Nailed it!

Tip Three

Peak season, book early / Off peak season, book late.

Peak season - Book in advance to get your chosen travel time. An early booking also means no last minute scrambling.

Shoulder season and off peak - Flexibility is your friend. Check the weather forecast around a week before you plan to book. Ideally you’ll then avoid crossing Cook Strait under a strong southerly wind and heavy seas. Spend that day elsewhere instead :)

You'll save 10% when you use promo code RANKERS with Bluebridge ferries and show your Rankers card at check in.

Get your Rankers card now

Nick

There's a heap more tips to share which I'll send through along with your free Rankers card. Bye for now.

Details

  • What do I get out of this deal?

    Save 10% off your entire ferry booking.

    Cross Cook Strait with the most reliable operator - Bluebridge.

    Feel good about supporting Rankers so we can keep making Camping NZ better.

  • How can I take advantage of this opportunity?

    Enter the Promo Code RANKERS at checkout when booking online with Bluebridge. Your discount is automatically applied to all passenger and vehicle fares.

    Importantly, you must show your free Rankers digital membership card at the ferry terminal during check in. Otherwise full payment will be required.

    If you’re not already a member then use the form to receive a free Rankers card via email.

  • What is the Cook Strait and why do I care?

    Most visitors to New Zealand will cross Cook Strait by ferry. It's the water that separates New Zealand's North and South Islands. If you're planning to get between the islands you'll need either a plane or a boat. And if you're got a vehicle then you're going to need a big boat. That's where the Cook Strait ferries come in.

    Roughly half the crossing is in the strait, and the remainder within the Marlborough Sounds. The journey covers 70 kilometres (43 mi) and takes about three or four hours.

  • Why did we choose Bluebridge?

    Bluebridge are the most reliable carrier. There’s been ongoing maintenance and breakdown issues with the other ferry provider since Covid. Bluebridge has been solid all along.

    We recommend Bluebridge as the most trusted provider - and you get a 10% discount. And Rankers will get a small kickback from Bluebridge whenever you use promo code RANKERS.

    It's a no brainer!

  • What are the terms and conditions for this offer?

    In order to receive your Rankers membership card you'll be agreeing to the Website User Account Terms.

    To take advantage of the Bluebridge discount you'll be agreeing to the Bluebridge Discount Terms and Conditions.

All the camping conveniences can be found here - expect powered sites, hot showers, serviced facilities and often much more.

Camping grounds which are non-commercial or Rankers partners are listed here.

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Kia ora, I'm Cymen, co-creator of Camping NZ.

I'm chuffed to have you here for a taste of travelling Aotearoa New Zealand. It's one of the world's great camping, campervan and van-life destinations.

Cymen Crick

"Silverback" CEO

I’ve looked at NZ travel from a bunch of angles over the years. My journey has taken me on a path of innovation through large sections of New Zealand tourism. I’m a CEO, but mainly a creator to be honest.

My whanau and I live in Tairāwhiti Gisborne on the East Coast where I can keep an eye on the surf.

What is camping? For some, the simplification of life provides clarity; for others, it offers fresh perspectives.

We're all united by the common thread of exploration, and share in the greatest connector of all - nature.

Nature

Nick Morrison

Co-owner

G'day there. I'm a co-owner of Rankers alongside Cymen. Y'know sometimes I'm not sure what my role is here. I guess it boils down to wanting to give people the best experience. I'm an advocate for the traveller and bring a 90° take on things.

I'm currently livin' my best life in a tiny home on a pristine riverside plot near Motueka (More-two-eh-car).

Camping is about sharing space with locals and visitors. Don’t be shy, have a cuppa with your neighbour.

Sometimes it’s the people you meet on your travels that provide the best memories.

Sharing

Sarah Skidmore

"Silver Bullet"

I was born and bred in a small town in the North Island called Kuaotunu. Just like many Kiwis, I grew up on the beach, surfing, swimming, and living off the local 'kai moana' (seafood).

I first found my feet in the tourism industry back in 2006 and learnt that I have a skill and love of looking after people in travel.

We’re proud to be creating the only locally-owned campervan travel app.

It's our hope, that by using Camping NZ, you'll experience true freedom.

Freedom

Mike Howe

Geek / Developer

Tēnā koe e hoa. I've been working as the lead developer and designer for Rankers since day one. I grew up in the little harbour-side village of Kohukohu in the Far North.

As a young man I merged my love of computers and design into building the early web. Then I travelled Australia, Southeast Asia and India with my wife to be. We returned to Aotearoa to settle in Golden Bay.

Twenty years later we're still here with a family, several cats and horse.

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Travel in peace friend. Only the best made the grade.

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Campgrounds-holiday-parks Holiday Parks

A sanctuary from the rigours of travelling: plug in, connect up, chill out, re-group, do laundry, go shopping, recharge.

The good folk from Holiday Parks work hard to help you relax with all the facilities you need. Usually located for proximity to attractions, or convenience to towns, these are great launch pads for your adventures into the great unknown.

And if Sustainable Travel is your thing, Holiday Parks make that easy. Look for the 'Sustainable Waste' filter and find hundreds of locations where compost, recycled and general waste are dealt with no worries.

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Other countries have snakes and spiders - NZ has weather.

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Campgrounds-doc-campsites DOC Campsites

The wairua (spirit) of DOC campsites is - you give, and in turn, you get. If you care for something, it reveals itself to you in a different way.

You get: nature immersion with authentic, back-to-basics camping.

You give: caretaking of a wonderful place, supporting the local DOC crew. They do a great job of looking after Aotearoa NZ's special places.

The smallest deeds are appreciated.

Hey Cymen here.

With great freedom comes equal responsibility. Some New Zealanders now see freedom campers as a threat to the environment and our collective ability to enjoy it.

I don’t want you to be seen in this light. Below are a few pointers when it comes to freedom camping.

Make A Plan

Freedom camping in NZ has become busy.

In years gone by you could be far more spontaneous. Not now. NZ is a camper's paradise for a reason. There’s more of us hitting the road and finding those sweet spots.

However, there’s amazing options when you make a plan.

Go Deep, Go Early

Places that are easy to access attract more campers. Places that are harder to access will be less so. Those that go deep get the gold.

And when you arrive early you’re more likely to get a sweet spot, and you’re assured of a place.

If it’s late in the day then holiday parks are the safer bet.

Save The Drama

Stay at designated legit campsites.

I’m a local and I’ve seen travellers sneaking around trying to find a place to stay. Honestly, it’s not worth it.

No more looking over your shoulder. Put your feet up and relax.

The Toilet

Everyone needs to go. Save the embarrassment of getting caught short.

If you have a camper toilet that’s hard to access then you're better off staying somewhere where there's a real toilet.

Remember to leave each place better than you found it. You’ll feel the difference.

It’s An Adventure

I’ve discovered that freedom camping is more of an adventure than an overnight stay.

The many good campsites are close to walks, nature, beaches and so much more. But it may take time to get there.

So I’Il go back to the beginning… you're always best to make a plan!

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Self-contained is more than a sticker - its a thought technology whose time has come.

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Campgrounds-self-contained Self-Contained Only

Real talk…

When you have a Fixed toilet (you’ve got an internal bathroom on board), you have the greatest choice where you can camp in NZ.

However, it’s easy to become isolated when you’re self contained. So, open your door... embrace the concept of happy hour, invite people for drinks. Share meals. Good times.

When you've got a Portable toilet (you’ve got a bucket toilet for your waste)… well, let's be real! Are we really going to use that portable toilet stored under the bed? I wouldn't. Time to be honest with ourselves…

So check the app and choose Self Contained locations with a toilet. Or join the party at the Non Self Contained campsites where facilities are always provided.

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The more you research, read, listen and become in tune with nature… the luckier you'll be in travelling in nature.

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Campgrounds-non-self-contained Non Self-Contained

This is where the party is at.

DIY camper conversions, cycle tourers, guitar + bongo drum players... here you’ll find a wonderful, eclectic bunch of humans. Where you find diversity, you will also find dance, story, song, poetry, and controversy. At a minimum, you’ll find some basic ablution facilities.

Non-self contained campers have a unique opportunity to have the lightest impact on the surrounding environment. They can also do significant social and ecological harm, if the environment is not respected.

The path you choose is in your hands.

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Get the old-school paper map and the app working together and may your true travel path be realised.

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Campgrounds-camping-allowed Tent Camping

When tenting, you can’t escape nature.

Closest to nature + heightened difficulty = the greatest possibility for elemental connection.

I say, total respect.

We’ve had some feedback letting us know that some of our tent detail isn’t quite right. Please let us know when we’re off the mark and we’ll update accordingly. Thanks heaps 😀

Cymen Crick
info@rankers.co.nz

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A map to create your own Special Local Organic journey in…

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Campgrounds-pets-allowed Dogs Allowed

What is a pet?

I reckon it’s any creature that’s part of your family / whanau. Dogs, cats, turtles, cockatoo’s and I even saw a pet rooster the other day. Who’s to judge.

But this filter is about which site accepts your dog.

🐕

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Keep the mystery of travel alive and natural places undisturbed.

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Animal-attractions Animal Encounters

There’s something about watching these awesome critters in their own environment. When they’re not aware of us and are doing their natural thing, I feel transfixed. Time flies.

I’ve learnt to resist the temptation of my camera and to stay in the moment instead. Only cameras built like bazookas have a chance of getting a good shot. Be a happy guardian and let others know if they’re getting too close.

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The early bird gets the worm - and so can the late bird.

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Thermal-pools Thermal Pools

As a wise man once said… "It’s always sunny in a hot pool" - so right.

Therapeutic in so many ways. Physically and socially.

I have had some of my greatest conversations with complete strangers, while soaking in one of nature’s great gifts.

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Stop and smell the manuka flowers.

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Walks Top Ranked Walks

Our isolated South Pacific islands are sitting on top of volcanically active and tectonically shifting plates. This has created beaches, forests, unique bird-life, insects, fish, harbours, hills, mountain ranges, volcanoes, lakes, rivers, plateaus, plains, points and passes.

So much to explore.

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Over 130 local regional tips. Over 30 SLO Pro and other local essentials.

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Visitor-centres Visitor Centres

iSite Info Centres

I love the iSITES info centres as I get to speak directly with the locals. They are specialists in their area.

It’s perhaps the easiest place to see all that’s on offer locally, and then book local adventures and accommodation. Supporting local, instead of the big international booking websites - Feels Good!

DOC Info Centres

Department of Conservation info centres are choice! If you’re heading into the wilderness, talk to the folks in green. They are more connected to nature than anyone else.

Here’s an important question you need to ask them… "How will the forecast weather affect my planned adventure"?

The weather dictates outdoor life here in NZ and they’ll help keep you safe.

Also, the Mountain Safety You Tube channel is a goody.

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A map to create your own Special Local Organic journey in…

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Campervan-day-parking Campervan Day Parking

Park up for the day while you explore on foot.

These locations offer daytime parking for campervans and motorhomes so you can leave your vehicle and enjoy what's nearby.

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Over 100 in map comments and tips of additional local goodness.

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Free-wifi Quality Free Wifi

Access free wifi without silly nonsense to your privacy.

These locations give you quality, un-metered, un-limited access with no strings attached.

Thanks to local councils and Tourism NZ for making this free and easy.

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A map to create your own Special Local Organic journey in…

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Lpg-refills LPG Refills

The three essentials of life - Food, Shelter, Warmth.

Gas helps out with two of these essentials - Food and Warmth.

Not running out means you’re cooking with gas.

Use these locations for filling smaller gas bottles that can’t be swapped.

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A map to create your own Special Local Organic journey in…

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Lpg-bottle-swaps LPG Bottle Swaps

Running low on gas? Swap your empty 9kg cylinder for a full one.

LPG bottle swap locations are found at petrol stations, hardware stores, and convenience stores across New Zealand.

No waiting for a refill - just exchange and go.

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Get the old-school paper map and our camping app working together and may your true travel path be realised.

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Playgrounds Top 25 Playgrounds

Hey Cymen here, our kids have grown up with our campervan. In those 17 years travelling to all parts of NZ, have we seen some playgrounds or what!

There’s lots of others of course, but here’s our families’ top 25.

Let us know if you think there’s others should should make the list. Let’s get to Top 30!

Cymen Crick
info@rankers.co.nz

Respect New Zealand

He Mahi Aroha

We’ve spent over twenty years gathering this Camping NZ information so you can experience the best of New Zealand. We ask that you use the information respectfully.

Aroha ki a Aotearoa

There’s a proud local guardian culture in NZ. Our sense of ownership extends far beyond the property we live in, to encompass all public and natural spaces in NZ. For us proud Kiwis - it’s all our backyard.

Mahi Tahi

Care must be taken by all visitors to respect and look after all our backyard places. Doing so will help you connect with NZ and the lovely local folk who live here and that’s how we all benefit.

Download App

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Free

Rankers Camping NZ App

Rated 4.8 Stars
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Every New Zealand camping location on your iPhone™, iPad™ or Android device.

Offline Maps - Featuring offline maps so you can find great camping locations, free of restrictions from NZ's poor and expensive internet. This app gives you Freedom!

Contact Rankers

Cymen Get in Touch

We're just a small pack of Rankers here. Chuck us a line if you've got a question or comment. It'll be nice to hear from you.

Cymen Crick
info@rankers.co.nz

About Rankers

Hi there, we're Cymen and Nick and we are the co-owners of Rankers.co.nz.

Before Rankers, we ran a sea kayak company in the Abel Tasman.

It grew from a staff of one, to be the busiest kayak company in the southern hemisphere.

This was because we looked after people.

Because we looked after people, they got honest with us. They told us what was good and bad with their NZ travels.

Many of them were getting a raw deal because they were being fed the wrong info, full of marketing hooplah.

This gave a us a different purpose. In 2007 we moved away from kayaking and embraced Travel Reviews, unique to NZ.

Now travellers tell us that by using Rankers, they've seen a different side of NZ. Something they wouldn't have seen otherwise.

We are happy with that, but we've only just begun.

Trusted Reviews

  • Why are Rankers' reviews trusted?

    Trusted reviews are very cool and very helpful. Untrusted reviews are a complete waste of time.

    So our Rankers crew personally meets the traveller, while they are on the road, asking them about their NZ travel experiences.

    Because we meet the traveller ourselves, we stand by these reviews.

    Over 40% of our reviews have been collected this way.

    We use a survey form on a clipboard. Maybe a bit old fashioned, but tangible and trusted.

    We also collect online reviews. Every one of them is checked by a real person, not just a computer.

    Thank you and Respect to those who have shared their feedback with us, for no reward.

Your Privacy

  • Does Rankers have a position on visitor privacy and respect?

    We keep your information private.

    We don't sell it, we don't trade it, we don't give it to anyone.

    We use the latest SSL security on every page of Rankers so you can't be ever be snooped on (like when you're on a WiFi hotspot).

    We keep no credit card info or passwords on our site.

    It's all encrypted and kept away from prying eyes.

    The value of privacy policies is to keep your information private. Read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Answers

User Data and Privacy

  • Does Camping NZ collect user data and information?

    Yes, but only the bare minimum to get the job done.

    We don't base our business on data collection. We don't sell it, we don't trade it, we don't give it to anyone unless you've expressly provided it for the purpose of sharing. Because our business isn't about harvesting data, we don't go overboard grabbing everything we could.

    Providing your personal information to us is entirely optional. Almost all functionality of the Camping NZ app works without you giving us anything. The exceptions are few. For example, when you write a review you'll need to provide your email address for verification purposes. And some map navigation features won't function useless you allow for location information to be used.

    We do collect some non-identifying session data for the purposes of statistics (analytics), and fraud prevention. This is done so we can show our customers (tourism operators) that we have users of our app. It's also done so we can detect fraudulent reviews.

    We use modern security for the website and app communications. Your network traffic can't be snooped on when you're using an unsafe network connection.

    It's all described in detail in the Camping NZ Privacy Policy

  • How can I manage my personal information and delete my account and related data?

    You can manage all your personal data once you've logged into your account on the Rankers website. Use the "Edit Profile" link in the "User" menu in the top-right of our web pages.

    Any or all the data you provide to Rankers can be removed at your request. We're happy to assist with this.

    Please send an email to info@rankers.co.nz or use the contact form and let us know if you'd like all data destroyed or just some. Please describe any particular information if there is something specific.

    We're a small team and account deletion (and associated data) is a manual process for us. It may take a day or two to get sorted.

Account Management

  • What is a Rankers user account?

    When you're using one of our websites or apps (eg. Rankers.co.nz or Camping NZ) then you might end up with a Rankers account. An account is simply a way for us to tie everything of yours together. For example you might write a review and we connect that to your account.

    Essentially it all revolves around your email address. When you provide your email address then we'll often automatically create your account.

    You can see if you have a Rankers account by using our Find Your Account page. If your email address exists in our database then you'll receive an email and this confirms you have an account. The email contains instructions on how to continue if you'd like to log in to your account.

    When you're on our website and logged in you'll be able to access anything related to your account in the "User" menu in the top-right (it looks like a little person).

    You can also add a password to your account if you'd like. Use the same Find Your Account page to get started.

    You can request to delete your account (or any data connected to it) by emailing info@rankers.co.nz.

  • I don't know how to access my Rankers account, what can I do?

    You can check if you have a Rankers account by using our Find Your Account page. If your email address exists in our database then you'll receive an email and this confirms you have an account. The email contains instructions on how to continue if you'd like to log in to your account.

App Problems

  • What should I do if I find an error in the campsite information?

    We love to hear about anything we've got wrong. Please send any details on errors or ommissions to us using our Contact Form or email us at info@rankers.co.nz. Include the name and location of the place you're talking about so we can find the right record in our system.

    We try to ensure our information is accurate and up-to-date. And even though New Zealand is a small country, it's still pretty easy for things to go awry. We're only a few people so we rely heavily on the Rankers community of users to let us know about issues. We do also lean on local councils, the Department of Conservation and business owners.

  • The app is misbehaving and it's driving me crazy - what can I do?

    We're sorry to hear that! You can get in contact using our Contact Form or email to info@rankers.co.nz with any problems and we'll do our best to assist.

    The most common issues can be resolved by restarting the app from scratch or (in more extreme situations) reinstalling from the app store.

    To restart the app you first need to force it to close by following instructions for your device:

    Android instructions

    Apple iOS (iPhone) instructions

    If that doesn't resolve the issue then you can try reinstalling the app from the app store. Be aware that you may loose some app settings and app related data when you do this (like favourites and downloaded maps). First delete the Camping NZ app by following the instructions for your device:

    Android instructions

    Apple iOS (iPhone) instructions

    You can then reinstall from the Camping NZ app page.

    And again, if none of that works and you're cursing this app and ready to throw your phone out the window, please contact us instead.

Offline Use

  • How do I use the Camping NZ app when I have no internet connection?

    We've got this! Camping NZ stores all the content locally on your device. This includes any offline maps you've downloaded.

    To switch into "offline" mode use the round button in the bottom right of the screen - it looks a bit like a cloud with legs. When you're in "online" mode it has a green tick on it - "offline" shows a cross symbol.

    When you've got no internet, tap the button until you're in "offline" mode. Now you're seeing downloaded maps.

    The downloaded maps don't come bundled with the app because they're huge. Be sure to download them while you're on a fast connection.

    To get the offline maps to download tap the "cloud" icon at the very top of the main menu. Then follow the on-screen instructions.

App Content

  • Why are some camping sites missing from Camping NZ?

    Camping NZ only includes camping locations where the local communities have officially sanctioned overnight stays. It's all about respect and the good things that brings to us all.

    What makes a location a camping site? It's a tricky question. Is a supermarket carpark a campsite? What about a beachfront road? Or a picnic area or roadside rest area.

    At Rankers we've decided that freedom camping in Aotearoa isn't about camping sites, it's all about respect. Without respect there can be no freedom. And respect can flow both ways between traveller and local.

    There’s a proud local guardian culture in NZ. Our sense of ownership extends far beyond the property we live in, to encompass all public and natural spaces in NZ. For us proud Kiwis - it’s all our backyard.

    Care must be taken by all visitors to respect and look after all our backyard places. Doing so will help travellers connect with NZ and the lovely local folk who live here and that’s how we all benefit.

  • How do I ensure the Camping NZ app has the latest information?

    Keeping the app up-to-date with the latest information is currently a manual process. We hope to automate this at some point but there is a concern that it will eat up your mobile data if we do it too often.

    For now, you can use the "Update" button (it looks like a circle with an arrow) at the top of the main menu to start an update. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.

  • Can I add a new campsite or location to the app?

    It's not possible to directly add a location to the app. However you're welcome to submit a location for us to consider - please use our Contact Form and send us all the relevant details.

    Please be aware that, unlike some apps and websites, we won't include unofficial camping sites where camping is not permitted. Rankers understands that travellers need to respect the decisions, that local communities make, around where it's okay to camp.

  • Can I provide photos for a location?

    Yes please! We'd really appreciate any up-to-date images if you've got them. Please email them to info@rankers.co.nz.

    And let us know where the photos are taken.

Bookings and Purchases

  • How do I make a booking at a campsite or campground?

    This depends on the campsite that you are wanting to stay at.

    Many free and non-commercial camp sites are offered on a "first-come, first-served" basis. The details within Camping NZ will let you know if this is the case. Within the Camping NZ app there is no button or link to online booking because there is no option to book in advance. You'll have to take your chances and visit the location to see if there is space available. This is a good reason to make a plan to arrive at your destination early. If you arrive and there are no spaces available (look in the details for limits on the number of spaces provided or the maximum number of vehicles permitted) then you'll need to look for another accommodation option. Holiday Parks are often a good bet when you're in a pinch.

    Some larger non-commercial campgrounds such as Department of Conservation campgrounds and a few council sites can be booked in advance via their website. In the Camping NZ app look for the "Check Availability" button or the "Online Booking" link. These take you to the website where you can complete a booking and guarantee your spot.

    Commercial campgrounds and holiday parks always provide for booking in advance and this is advised during the Summer and public holidays. This can be done in a bunch of ways such as online or via phone. Within Camping NZ, look for the "Check Availability" button or the "Online Booking" link. Not all commercial businesses will have these buttons or links. The free Camping NZ app is supported by holiday parks that pay to have this facility offered within Camping NZ.

Reviews

  • How do I know I can trust the reviews on Camping NZ?

    Reviews can be very helpful but they're only as good as the trust we have in them. Untrusted reviews are a complete waste of time.

    Like all internet content it's good to be wary of it and try to see things for what they really are.

    Every one of the reviews you see on Camping NZ has been read and checked by a real person on our team, not a computer. For this reason not every review will make it through.

    Some won't because the reviewer doesn't respond to our verification checks. Others because they don't justify their rating or the facts don't add up. And some we'll see are deliberately attempting to be dishonest.

    Oh and don't forget that we also collect reviews when face-to-face with travellers. These face-to-face reviews are as trusted as any review can be.

    All in all, we reckon our reviews are some of the most trustworthy you'll ever find. But at the end of the day you'll need to look at all the reviews to get a clear picture and make up your own mind.

  • Why can't I see my review on the Camping NZ app?

    First off, thanks for taking the time to write a review and passing your knowledge on to those who come later.

    When a new review comes in we do some checks to make sure it is valid and authentic. Every review is checked by a one of our team members. The reviewer must validate their email address before the review is considered acceptable for publishing.

    If there's anything contentious about the review then further checks might be necessary. This can involve contacting the reviewer to check further details.

    Usually the review will be published within 24 hours. At that point the review will show on the website. However these new reviews won't show immediately on the Camping NZ app until the data has had a chance to update.

  • Why must I provide an email address when I write a review?

    We only use your email address for verification and in the odd case to request further information to justify your review. This way we have trust in all the information we receive from you folks out there.

    When you give us personal information such as your email address, we understand that we've been entrusted with it. Your email address will not be presented publicly and we don't ever pass it on to third-parties.

  • What is the ranking score percentage all about?

    The ranking score is at the core of Rankers so I'm pleased you're curious.

    The ranking score percentage is used to compare experiences overall. It is not necessarily a direct measurement of the quality of a particular experience as rated by its customers. I've found it a useful tool to allow me to find the best experiences with confidence.

    We calculate an experience's ranking score using a multi-factor data model instead of a raw data average (mean). This model takes into account several important questions. For instance - is there a trusted body of reviews? What is the age of a review and is the review from a credible source?

    I've found its important to read the customer reviews before making any final judgements!

  • Do all reviews show for a location in Camping NZ?

    We don't necessarily show every review we've received. There are a bunch of reasons for this.

    Some reviews may not meet our requirements to be published (this topic is covered in detail in another answer).

    All the published reviews go toward calculating the ranking score, but they may not all show on Camping NZ. This is because there may be hundreds of reviews so we only show the most recent and those that are indicative of the experience's score. This limit is in place to reduce the size of the app update files.

About Rankers

  • Who are the people behind Rankers?

    The people who've helped to build Camping NZ are many. They've come from all over the world, experienced Aotearoa, and given their knowledge forward to those who come later. You might be one of them.

    There's also the crew that keeps this little leaky boat forging ahead. We've got the co-owners Cy and Nick, forever plotting a way around obstacles while ensuring the course is always true. There's Hamish who's keeping in touch with campsite and activity operator owners. And then there's our techie Mike who helps to bring fresh ideas into reality while keeping the engine ticking over. And most importantly there's Kate - working to keep all our information up-to-date and accurate.

    All of the crew work part time on Rankers and Camping NZ. There are no full time employees - though many hours might go into the project each week. Otherwise the team members are working other jobs, studying, being a mum or tending the vege patch.

  • What is Rankers all about?

    Rankers is the company we came up with to introduce travellers to a special New Zealand. It's a labor of love that we've poured our combined, decades of experience in travel, into.

    At its heart, Rankers is a community-driven guide. It's not only about finding a place to stay; it's about connecting you with experiences that resonate with the soul of this land and its people.

    We believe in the power of shared experiences and the value of honest feedback.

    It's about the memories you create and the stories you'll tell. That's what Rankers is all about.

  • How is Camping NZ funded?

    Camping NZ isn't a corporate juggernaut. Its a little app that runs on next to nothing and aims high to make something special.

    The Camping NZ app is primarily funded by campervan hires and rentals. Rankers is a popular tool for people looking to hire a campervan in New Zealand. Any hires resulting from Rankers visitors provides a small kickback.

    Camping NZ is also supported by some accomodation and activity companies. These companies can sign up for a plan that allows them to look their best and take bookings directly via the app. Then Rankers takes a small commission on bookings you make via the app (at no extra cost to you).

    Despite being a small app, our job is never done and its always surprising how much there is to do.

Privacy

  • Privacy Policy
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Technical

Native App
Timestamp
Platform
Version
OS Version

Navigation View
Timestamp

Fri 10 Apr, 2026 1:47AM (NZST).
Useragent Mozilla/5.0 (Macintosh; Intel Mac OS X 10_15_7) AppleWebKit/537.36 (KHTML, like Gecko) Chrome/145.0.0.0 Safari/537.36 Edg/145.0.0.0
Request Context Environment production
Request Context Platform WEB
Request Context Version 1.3.23
Online App Code CAMPING_NZ
Online App Version 1.3.23

Credits

Thanks to Arran Bee for the Auckland city photo

Thanks to Phil Whitehouse for the Mount Taranaki photo

Thanks to Phillip Capper for the modified launch photo of Pott's Road, Canterbury

Some images and content Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026

Offline Maps © OpenStreetMap contributors, licensed under ODBL.

All other content © Rankers Limited